Vietnam tour

Vietnam's Northern Charms in 2 Weeks Including Ha Giang Loop

  • Embark on an adventurous journey through the stunning landscapes of the rice fields in Hoang Su Phi.
  • Discover the spectacular wild beauty of Ha Giang, Dong Van, Nho Que River.
  • Visit the awe-inspiring Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang.
  • Explore the iconic Halong Bay on a memorable cruise.
  • Immerse yourself in the historical and natural wonders of Ninh Binh.
  • Experience the rich cultural heritage of Hanoi, a city with a history spanning a thousand years, as you stroll through its old quarters
From $1230 Tailor-made enquiry
Vietnams Northern Charms in 2 Weeks Including Ha Giang Loop
ITINERARY

Program description

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Day 1 Hanoi - Arrival

Arrival in Hanoi, a thousand-year-old capital located in the heart of northern Vietnam. Welcome by the English-speaking guide from Kampá Tour at the airport, transfer to the hotel in the center of the city (room available from 2:00 p.m.) and day adapted according to your arrival time.

Departure for the first visits to the city center, marking the start of your 2-week itinerary in Vietnam, to soak up the charm of the thousand-year-old capital:

  • King Ly Thai To square, discovery of the thousand-year-old history of the Vietnamese capital.

Ly Thai To is the founder of the Ly dynasty (1009-1225). It was he who transferred the capital from Hoa Lu to Hanoi in 1010

  • Lake of the Restored Sword with the temple of Mount Jade, the Turtle Islet, in the heart of Hanoi.
  • Explore the Hanoi Old Quarter with 36 corporation streets, where you can stroll through craft streets bearing the name of the goods that were produced and sold there. Don't forget to stop at Ma May Street and visit an old 'Tube' house, a characteristic feature of traditional Hanoi architecture.

This Old Quarter is located in the heart of Hanoi and is full of old houses, temples, bustling markets, artisan shops, and traditional restaurants. It is an emblematic place that testifies to the history and culture of the Vietnamese capital.

Discover the colonial heritage with French concessions: take a cycle rickshaw ride through the city to visit the Grand Théâtre, the Métropole hotel, the state bank, the Central Post Office… End your day with a relaxing night at the hotel

Day 2 Hanoi - City Tour

A day dedicated to exploring Hanoi's most remarkable cultural sites and historical monuments:

Built 1000 years ago, this Confucian temple served as an institution where royal offspring and sons of mandarins received their education. It also hosted competitions for the country's most talented students, with the winners attaining the status of scholars and senior officials in Vietnamese feudal dynasties.

  • Visit Ba Dinh Square, the location of the former palace of the Indochina governor, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and his residence.
  • Explore the Ethnography Museum, home to a vast collection of 25,000 ancient and contemporary artifacts that provide insights into the history of local populations.
  • In the evening, enjoy a water puppet show – a distinctive feature of the Vietnamese culture.

Colorful wooden puppets are skillfully manipulated by the artists using rods and bamboo shafts underwater. It is a unique and captivating art form unique to the Northern Vietnamese tradition.

Day 3 Hanoi - Hoang Su Phi

At 8:00 AM, your private tour guide and driver will meet you at your Hanoi hotel to kickstart the journey. The approximately 7-hour drive includes several stops for photo opportunities and a lunch break.

Upon reaching Thong Nguyen commune in Hoang Su Phi, settle into a homestay within a Red Yao ethnic village for the night. After check-in, indulge in a refreshing break and savor a dinner prepared by the welcoming family.

Day 4 Hoang Su Phi trekking

Today, a whole day of captivating trekking from Thong Nguyen Commune to Nam Son Commune will be waiting for you. This journey unfolds amidst an awe-inspiring scenery, highlighting expansive rice fields and engaging with local ethnic communities to join their daily activities such as gardening, and tending to chickens and pigs. All of this provides a glimpse into their daily lives.
The tranquility and beauty of the surroundings are truly unique to the mountainous regions of northern Vietnam. Although the trek is generally moderate, it presents occasional challenges like navigating slopes and crossing picturesque streams, making the adventure even more rewarding. Expect a duration of approximately 5 to 6 hours.
A delightful picnic lunch awaits at a local house along the way, offering a chance to rejuvenate.
Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at another welcoming local house, immersing yourself further in the authentic charm of the region.

Day 5 Hoang Su Phi - Ha Giang

Depart for the northeast region, venturing into the pristine landscapes of Ha Giang. The journey unfolds through grandiose terrains, featuring imposing mountains and hills that roll as far as the eye can see. Winding along the mountainside, revel in remarkable views of verdant valleys and towering peaks.

Situated in the far north, Ha Giang is a wilderness defined by limestone peaks, granite needles, dizzying canyons, and breathtaking panoramas – a paradise for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Arrive in Ha Giang by day's end and proceed to check-in at the hotel.

Day 6 Ha Giang - Dong Van

Greetings to our hosts as we continue our journey to the karst plateau of Dong Van, one of the largest geological parks in Asia. Today's route winds through twisting roads, navigating dizzying massifs, offering you the chance to revel in unique and extraordinary landscapes—countless limestone peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. This leg of the journey promises to be the most breathtaking itinerary of the trip.

Several stops are planned along the way:

  • Lung Tam: Visit a Hmong women’s linen factory, where you'll explore the ancestral craft of the Hmong people. Discover linen production techniques, weaving, and a wide range of linen items, including clothing, bags, wallets, etc., inspired by the rich culture of ethnic groups in the region.
  • Pho Cao: Explore a small neighborhood of clay houses with tiled roofs, built a long time ago.
  • Sa Phin: Visit the Vuong Chi Duc Palace, a blend of Chinese and local architecture. Vuong Chi Duc was a renowned king of the Hmong tribes in this region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Late in the afternoon, arrive in Dong Van and check in at the hotel. Enjoy a free evening for rest or leisurely walks in this mountainous suburb.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 7 Dong Van – Nho Que – Meo Vac - Bao Lac

Your journey will continue to Ngai Lau as soon as you’ve enjoyed your breakfast, following route 4C that winds around the famed Ma Pi Leng Pass. This pass, known for its staggering verticality, was once deemed impassable due to a giant limestone wall. Take the small zigzag paths branching off route 4C to descend to the base of the pass. Along this route, marvel at numerous karst peaks and valleys adorned with traditional houses of ethnic minorities. Pause at Ngai Lau, a charming Hmong hamlet.
After disembarking, proceed by road to Bao Lac, a quaint town nestled on the banks of the Gam River. Reach Khuoi Khon, a high hamlet adorned with rice terraces and inhabited by the black Lolo ethnic group. 
Settle into a homestay with a Lolo family in the village and enjoy an overnight stay in Khuoi Khon.

Day 8 Bao Lac- Quang Uyen

After breakfast, drive towards Quang Uyen, a small district located on the road to Cao Bang near the Chinese border. Upon arrival, embark on a walk to explore the craft villages of the Tay and Nung minorities. These villages, distinguished by traditional houses with notable Yin Yang roofs, remain relatively untouched by modern life. Visit the Phia Chang village, specializes in the manufacture of knives made from special steel, and then the Phia Thap village, famous for its incense. Few ethnic groups in the northern mountains practice various crafts like the Tays and Nung in Quang Uyen.
Settle in with a Tay family in the Incense village.
Enjoy dinner and spend the night in their stilted house.

Day 9 Quang Uyen - Ban Gioc - Cao Bang

Departure towards the easternmost part of this corner of Vietnam, bordering China, involves crossing countless hills and sugarloaves covered in lush vegetation.

Upon arrival in Trung Khanh, indulge in a visit to the splendid Ban Gioc Falls, regarded as one of the most beautiful in Asia. They are also recognized as the fourth longest falls globally (following those of Iguaçu, Niagara, and Victoria), and there are opportunities for swimming during certain times of the year.

Next, transfer to Dam Thuy to explore the magnificent Nguom Ngao cave, adorned with stalagmites and stalactites that date back several centuries.

Return to Cao Bang for the night at the hotel.

Day 10 Cao Bang - Hanoi

After breakfast, return to Hanoi by road.

Arrive in town towards the end of the afternoon, where you can relax with a foot massage session at a local institute.

Enjoy a free evening and spend the night at the hotel.

Day 11 Hanoi - Ninh Binh

Departure for Ninh Binh – land of limestone rocks, sugar loaves and rice fields flooded by rivers and lakes all year round.

Arrival in Ninh Xuan, visit Mount Mua. Climbing a white staircase of 486 stone steps to the summit, this bell-shaped mountain will offer you a panoramic view of the Tam Coc region.

Mount Múa, also known as Múa Cave or Hang Múa, is a popular tourist destination located in the Ninh Bình Province of Vietnam. It is renowned for its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, which include lush green rice fields, winding rivers, and limestone karsts typical of the region.

Then transfer to Tam Coc, bike ride and relax to discover this fabulous region.

Tam Cốc, located in the Ninh Bình Province of Vietnam, is a scenic area renowned for its striking natural beauty. It is often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land" due to its stunning landscape of limestone karsts, lush greenery, and winding waterways. The name "Tam Cốc" translates to "Three Caves," which are the primary attractions of the area.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat trip along the Ngo Dong River to explore the beauty of Tam Coc. This meandering river takes you through lush rice fields, past picturesque sugar loaf hills, and beneath the three enchanting caves nestled at the base of towering limestone peaks.

Day 12 Ninh Binh - Halong bay

Start off your journey to Halong Bay, often hailed as the most stunning bay in Vietnam and one of the most enchanting landscapes in all of Asia. 
Step aboard a traditional junk upon arrival and receive a warm welcome from the crew. Set sail for an unforgettable cruise across the bay, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the northern part of Halong Bay, known as Bai Tu Long:

We provide shared junks, typically smaller in size with 10 to 12 cabins, suitable for hosting around twenty passengers. Alternatively, you have the choice of selecting a private cruise on a smaller junk, offering one or a few cabins, for a truly unforgettable experience. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us if you're interested in this option.

  • Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the picturesque islands and islets, each with its unique shapes resembling sails, dogs, roosters, and incense burners.
  • Explore the stunning caves of Halong Bay, including Thien Canh Son, which houses stalagmites and stalactites dating back several thousand years.
  • The cruise then continues to Cap La, where you can embark on a kayaking adventure and take a refreshing swim in the bay's pristine waters, weather permitting

End of the afternoon, relaxing on the upper deck of the junk.
Participation in a culinary demonstration on board, preparation of spring rolls or spring rolls.
Tasty seafood lunch and dinner.
Free evening for your personal rest and relaxation: card games, night fishing…
Night on board.

Day 13 Halong - Hanoi

Arise at the first light to savor a moment of unparalleled beauty: witness rays of sun peering over the countless limestone karsts of the bay and partake in a Tai Chi session on the terrace.
Commence on a boat or kayak excursion to explore the fishing village of Vung Vieng, where you may have the chance to interact with the locals.
Enjoy lunch on the junk, then disembark and return to Hanoi.

Day 14 Hanoi - Departure

Feel free to explore Hanoi until it's almost time for your departure. The car will pick you up to go to the airport for your flight to Hanoi and then your return flight.

Thank you for choosing Kampá Tour's travel services in Vietnam in 2 weeks! This Vietnam family trip has been designed as part of a comprehensive Vietnam 2-week itinerary, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for your family. It has been our pleasure to accompany you on this wonderful journey. Safe travels!

ACTIVITY

Optional activities

Tour price

$1230per person
This price, calculated for four people staying in standard hotels, may vary based on: • Travel period • Number of travelers • Chosen services
The price includes
  • Accommodation for the entire circuit, in hotels or with locals
  • Travel according to the program by private car
  • English-speaking guide for the visits mentioned in the program
  • All activities mentioned in the program, including entrance fees to tourist sites
  • Economy class domestic flights with airport taxes included
  • Meals mentioned in the program
  • Bottle of water during guided tours (2 x 500ml/traveler/day)
  • Government taxes currently in force (VAT, etc.)
The price excludes
  • International flights from your home
  • Visa fees, payable directly at the airport customs (see VISA)
  • Bank fees related to payment
  • Personal insurance
  • Personal beverages during meals: beer, Coca-Cola, fruit juice, etc.
  • Other meals not specified in the program
  • SIM card and mobile plans
  • Tips, personal expenses, and other services not mentioned in the "Our Included Services" section
SERVICE

Services for this trip

Your accommodation:
Your cruise on Halong Bay:

Tailor-made enquiry

Please leave us a quote request, and our travel advisor will provide you with more detailed information and a quote.
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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

1. What are some tips for dealing with language barriers during this adventure in Vietnam?

To deal with language barriers in Vietnam in 2 weeks, learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases, use translation apps like Google Translate when your guide isn't around, carry a phrasebook, and be patient and polite. Many young Vietnamese people and those working in tourism speak some English, so don't hesitate to ask for help.

2. Am I exempt from the visa? If not, how can I obtain it?

If you are from the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, the Czech Republic, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, or Belarus, you do not need a visa for Vietnam for stays up to 45 days. Switzerland, Poland, and the Czech Republic have a special exemption from March 1 to December 31, 2025, for organized tours.

Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States are NOT visa-exempt and must obtain a visa before arrival. You have three options:

  1. E-Visa (valid for up to 90 days, single or multiple entry) – Apply online through the Vietnamese Immigration website (processing time 3-5 days).
  2. Visa on Arrival (VOA) – Available only for air travelers, requiring a pre-approval letter from an authorized travel agency.
  3. Visa through a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate – Apply in person or by mail in your home country.

For the smoothest process, we highly recommend the E-Visa. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and have proof of onward travel. Contact us for visa assistance.

3. How do I balance relaxation and adventure in a 2-week Vietnam itinerary?

Balancing relaxation and adventure in this itinerary involves planning a mix of activities that cater to both. Incorporate adventurous activities like trekking, biking, and water sports with relaxation time at beaches, spas, and scenic spots. Kampá Tour will ensure your itinerary has a good mix of high-energy days followed by more leisurely days to rest and recharge.

4. What are some unique experiences to include in this tour?

Unique experiences to include in this trip could be taking a street food tour, trying your hand at traditional crafts like pottery or silk weaving, enjoying a bike ride through the countryside, participating in a dawn Tai Chi session by a lake, or exploring Vietnam's coffee culture by visiting local cafes and trying different brews.

5. What kind of wildlife can I see on tours in Northern Vietnam?

Northern Vietnam itineraries offer opportunities to see a variety of wildlife in different natural settings. In the national parks such as Cuc Phuong and Ba Be, you can encounter diverse flora and fauna, including rare species like the Delacour's langur and numerous bird species. Halong Bay is home to marine life, and while cruising, you might spot dolphins, fish, and various seabirds. In the rural and mountainous regions, you can see water buffalo, traditional livestock, and sometimes even wild pigs. These wildlife experiences add a unique dimension to your tour, allowing you to connect with Vietnam's natural heritage.

6. What kind of accommodations can I expect on those tours?

Accommodations on those adventures range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, providing options to suit various preferences and budgets. In major cities like Hanoi, you can find high-end hotels with modern amenities, as well as charming boutique hotels that offer a more personalized experience. In places like Halong Bay, you might stay on a traditional junk boat, enjoying a unique overnight cruise. In Sapa and other rural areas, homestays with local families are the best-seller choice, offering an authentic cultural experience and a chance to connect with the local community. No matter where you stay, our accommodations are selected to provide comfort and convenience throughout your tour.

7. What are the highlights of North Vietnam trips?

North Vietnam trips offer a rich array of highlights, including the vibrant capital city of Hanoi, with its bustling Old Quarter and historical sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. Another must-see is Halong Bay, renowned for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters, perfect for a scenic cruise. Sapa, with its terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages, provides a glimpse into rural life and breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, the ancient city of Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Halong Bay on land," offers stunning scenery and the historic Trang An complex.

8. What type of vehicle is scheduled for my trip?

We provide well-maintained, comfortable private cars with air conditioning for your trip. They are often equipped with a cooler, allowing you to have cold water bottles. The number of seats will depend on the number of participants. Here are our criteria:

Number of travelers 2-3 4-8 9-15  16-20
Car size Private 7-seater car 16-seater minibus 24-seater bus 35 or 45-seater bus

Our drivers are professional, cautious, and friendly. If you wish, they are ready to make stops along the way so you can better admire a beautiful landscape, take photos, or simply relax.

9. Is 2 weeks in Vietnam enough to experience the country's highlights?

Spending 2 weeks in Vietnam is an ideal amount of time to experience the country's diverse attractions and culture. During this period, you can explore the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, marvel at the natural beauty of Halong Bay, and relax on the stunning beaches of Da Nang. Additionally, you can choose to focus your 2-week itinerary on either the northern, central, or southern regions of Vietnam to fully immerse yourself in the unique experiences each area offers. Whether it's the mountainous landscapes and ethnic cultures of the north, the historical sites of the central region, or the vibrant Mekong Delta in the south, two weeks provide ample opportunity to appreciate the essence of Vietnam.

10. Can I make changes to the itinerary?

Yes, it is entirely possible to make changes to the provided itinerary. We specialize in private and tailor-made trips, and our advisors will be able to adjust the program according to your every wish.

11. How can I make payments on-site? Which currencies are accepted?

International cards such as Visa or Mastercard are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants. However, please note that Vietnamese banks may apply an additional commission of 3% to 4% for this type of payment.

You can also pay in euros or USD at some businesses in major cities (hotels, restaurants, etc.). However, for small expenses, it is more advantageous to have Vietnamese Dong (VND). You can easily exchange currency at banks, jewelry shops, or even at your hotel. You can also withdraw VND from ATMs.

12. When and how is the balance of the trip paid?

As for the balance payment, you can settle it in one of the following ways:

  • In cash upon your arrival. We accept US dollars and Euros (USD/EUR exchange rate calculated on the day of payment). However, we do not accept defaced or excessively old banknotes. We kindly ask you to obtain new bills from your bank to avoid any inconveniences during your trip.

  • By credit card upon your arrival at our office (using our credit card terminal). In this case, there is an additional fee of 3% for our bank if you pay with Visa or Mastercard and 4% for payments with Amex. Payment is made in the local currency.

  • By bank transfer: We request that you complete this transfer no later than 10 days before your departure. This is to ensure that the balance of your trip is credited to our account before the start of your journey

13. What are the payment terms?

To make the deposit payment, you have two options:

  • Bank transfer: Our account details are provided in the travel invoice.
  • Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) through our bank's secure website. This payment method includes insurance as part of the card services (cancellation insurance, medical coverage, repatriation, etc.). However, please note that you will incur additional fees for our bank with this option: 3% extra on the deposit if you pay with Visa or Mastercard, and 4% extra on the deposit if you pay with American Express. Payment is made in the local currency."
14. What budget should I plan for a trip to Vietnam?

As an approximate guideline, the cost of a 2-week trip to Vietnam would be around 1450$ per person when traveling as a pair (excluding airfare). For a 3 or 4-week journey, please budget between 1900$ and 2500$ per person. If you're in a larger group (4 or 6 people), the trip will be more cost-effective. The price always varies depending on the duration and time of your stay, as well as your preferences (activities, services). Please leave us a quote request, and our travel advisor will provide you with more detailed information and a quote.

15. What is the 'customized travel' option?

Customized travel is a service where your journey is designed according to your preferences for dates, duration of stay, services, and budget. A local advisor assists you in preparing for the trip and supports you on-site, handling transportation, visits, accommodation, and more. This ensures you benefit from an organized trip tailored to your desires and constraints down to the smallest details.

16. How can I book my trip?

If you agree with the itinerary proposed by one of our advisors, please send us an email to confirm the reservation of the tour with our agency. Your advisor will then provide you with the booking documents, including:

  • A reservation form containing detailed information about your booked tour, as well as your personal details and contact information to be completed. You will need to return the form with these details duly filled out, which will be used for the organization of your trip. Please also send us a scan of your passports.

  • A travel invoice requesting a deposit payment of 25% of the total price.

The organization of your trip will be confirmed upon receipt of the completed form and once the deposit is in our possession. We will also send you a travel contract that certifies the details of your trip, including the duration, travel dates, deposit paid, and your contact information."

17. What is the price of the trip?

The price displayed on our website does not include international flights and is calculated based on 4 people with standard hotels. Our tours are private with custom services, so the price varies depending on the travel period, the selected service category, and especially the number of travelers. Please contact us for a detailed quote for your trip.

18. When are the best times to visit Vietnam?

Vietnam experiences a diverse climate from north to south, owing to its varied topography and the country's considerable length (2000 km from north to south). When one region is humid, cold, or rainy, the other can be pleasantly sunny in contrast. Based on our experience, the optimal time to visit Vietnam is from October to April.

Within this timeframe, the best months are October to November and March to May. During these periods, the weather remains pleasant, and, additionally, they are the least rainy months of the year in Vietnam. While July and August can be a bit hot (30-35 degrees Celsius), Halong Bay typically enjoys sunny weather. You'll also have the opportunity to witness the region adorned with endless terraced green or yellow rice fields.

Regarding the southern region, despite it being the rainy season, precipitation usually lasts for only an hour or two each day, with the rest of the day being sunny. If you already have a specific timeframe in mind for your trip (winter, summer, etc.), please inform us, and we can provide guidance on the most favorable months.

19. Do you offer family rooms or connecting rooms?

If you are traveling with young children, we always try to arrange either family rooms or connecting rooms or rooms next to each other. However, not all hotels in our country have family rooms, and these rooms are usually in high demand in July and August, the peak vacation period for families. Therefore, we recommend booking your trip early to ensure the availability of the services according to your preferences.

20. Do you offer fun activities for children?

During your family trip, we certainly offer several fun activities for your children during the journey: meeting new Vietnamese 'friends' by staying with local families, cycling, boating, kayaking, and visiting artisanal product workshops.

Vietnam boasts diverse landscapes and an authentic culture, ensuring an experience that will satisfy all your desires.

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